The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is one of the most crucial examinations across West Africa. Getting good grades does not only require commitment and hard work but also solid preparation and discipline. To excel, candidates must follow certain procedures before, during and after the examination.
Before the examination, it is important for candidates to prepare well by studying according to the WASSCE syllabus rather than relying solely on classroom notes. It is also important to note that candidates should solve past questions on time, as WAEC often repeats questions in similar forms. Candidates must design an effective timetable that covers all subjects. They should place equal emphasis on the study of elective and core subjects. Candidates must ensure that they bring all examination materials (pencils, calculators and mathematical sets) to the examination room to avoid unnecessary stress. Furthermore, students must get enough rest before the exam for sharp memory and good concentration.
During the examination itself, candidates must carefully read the instructions before answering any question. Failure to read the instructions is an indirect decision made by the candidate to fail. Candidates must also consider how to manage their time, since time in the examination is critical in determining whether candidates can finish or not. For instance, if four questions are to be answered in two hours, then a maximum of thirty minutes should be spent on each question. Candidates must first write their names boldly and correctly. They should nicely shade their names and index numbers during the multiple-choice questions. It is always prudent for candidates to start with questions they are most conversant with. Candidates must again answer questions the exact way they should in order to avoid irrelevant and extraneous information.
Candidates must also present their work with clear and neat handwriting to make it easier for examiners to award marks. In addition, candidates must support their answers with relevant examples by showing the steps involved in calculations in Mathematics and Science. Moreover, candidates should reserve the final minutes of the time to review their work, correct mistakes, and complete unfinished answers.
After the examination, it is important for candidates to pray and ask for God’s guidance and clarity for the examiners to score their work with precision. They must not worry about the papers that didn’t go well for them, since worry brings fear and needless anxiety. Instead, candidates should remain positive, hopeful and confident for brighter days ahead.
In conclusion, passing well in the WASSCE is not just about learning anyhow. It demands strategic planning and effective time management. Candidates must make a conscious effort to adhere to the rules and regulations of the exams. On this note, I wish all WASSCE candidates the best.
